GOOD HOPE, Ala. – The Good Hope City Council on Monday, April 27, heard from local advocates and state leaders who spoke about child welfare issues and funding for city infrastructure.
Alyson Miley, representing Cullman Caring for Kids and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), shared details about services for vulnerable children and families, explaining that the groups help children in the court system find safe homes and get essentials like school supplies, clothing and other necessities.
The Cullman Caring for Kids food bank helps between 850 and 900 families each month in Cullman County, and thousands have signed up this year. While donations help, the food bank still needs to buy much of the food to keep up with demand. The group also supports elderly residents and grandparents raising children, showing that needs are increasing for people of all ages.
Miley said the need for child abuse awareness is great. She said state data shows Alabama is often among the highest in reported cases, with early numbers indicating thousands of reports each year, and a significant portion involving confirmed neglect. The council recognized and approved a proclamation declaring April Child Abuse Awareness Month in Good Hope.
Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, spoke to the council regarding state support for local projects. He announced $1 million in funding for upgrades to the city’s wastewater treatment plant, saying it came from ongoing collaboration between local and state leaders.
Gudger said that keeping good relationships with state officials is important for getting funding, and he encouraged city leaders to keep sharing their needs. He added that the funding will help pay for infrastructure upgrades and support growth in the area.
The City of Good Hope said in statement on social media: “The Good Hope Mayor and Council would like to thank our state delegation, Senator Garlan Gudger Jr., Representative Cindy Myrex, Representative Heath Allbright, and Representative Tim Wadsworth.
“Senator Gudger attended our council meeting on Monday, April 27th and announced that they had secured a million dollars to help pay for upgrades to the sewer system.
“These funds are much appreciated and will be a tremendous help to the city as we continue to work on improving infrastructure for the citizens. Thank you all for your hard work, commitment, and continued support of our community.”
